The Stratosphere

Description

It is virtually impossible to be anywhere in Las Vegas and miss the Stratosphere. It towers 1,149 feet above Las Vegas and is the tallest observation tower in the United States. The casino itself is 55,784 square feet and contains 950 slot machines, 120 game tables and 2,427 hotel rooms.

The Stratosphere is mostly known for its rides at the top of the tower. The Big Shot, located at the 113th floor, torpedoes riders up 160 feet using compressed air. X-Scream is a teeter-totter perched at the top of the observation deck — if that wasn't scary enough, the coaster arm flings the riders out 27 feet over the edge of the tower. Guests looking for something more sedate can just hang around the 107th floor and simply look at the scenery.

“We’ve been listening to what people want, and people have questioned why there has been so little skin for a Playmate in a 10:30 show in Las Vegas,” Claire Sinclair said today in a phone interview. “I agree. We’re going to give them a little bit more, and I’m happy for it.”

I am thrilled to have been asked to write a guest column for the one and only Mr. Robin Leach as he basks in the Tuscan sun. For those of you who have only seen my fiery redheaded image on show fliers in town, my name is Tara Palsha.

The summer heat is here in full force, but that doesn't mean you need to spend your weekend cowering inside by the air conditioner. Cool off with a number of nighttime and outdoor entertainment options this weekend, including downtown festivals, comedy shows and more.